By Alieu Ceesay
The Government of The Gambia has suspended the controversial Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) project with immediate effect, barely 24 hours after clearing agents launched a sit-down strike that paralysed operations at the Port of Banjul.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment announced the decision, citing the need to resolve outstanding implementation issues.
“The Government of The Gambia wishes to inform the general public, particularly the business community, that the implementation of the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note Project (ECTN) has been suspended until further notice pending the resolution of outstanding implementation issues,” the statement read.
The suspension follows a swift and effective protest by the Association of Custom Clearing and Forwarding Agencies, which began on Monday. Hundreds of agents occupied the port terminals, refusing to process containers in opposition to new tariffs introduced under the ECTN system. Agents had complained that the charges — including $170 for a 44-foot container and $80 for a 24-foot container — were unjustified, poorly implemented, and threatened to divert trade to neighbouring Senegal.
The ministry’s statement urged the association to “resume normal operations immediately” while further engagements continue between stakeholders.
However, the Clearing and Forwarding Agencies Association has maintained a firm stance. Officials indicated that the sit-down strike will continue until their core demands are fully met, including the complete removal or substantial review of the new fees and clearer explanations of the system’s operation.
The rapid government response highlights the significant pressure exerted by the agents, whose industrial action brought cargo clearance at the country’s main port to a complete halt. Importers, shipping lines, and traders had expressed fears of mounting losses and supply chain disruptions.
The ECTN system was intended to enhance cargo monitoring and transparency. Still, its rollout, accompanied by charges, sparked immediate backlash from industry players who described the fees as burdensome and the technology as unreliable due to network and confirmation delays.
As of Wednesday evening, port operations remained suspended, with both sides expected to enter further dialogue in the coming days.
